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Can I Receive the Flu Shot Right After Cosentyx?

As the flu season approaches, it's essential to stay protected against the virus. If you're taking Cosentyx, a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, you may be wondering if you can receive the flu shot right after taking the medication. In this article, we'll explore the answer to this question and provide guidance on how to stay healthy during the flu season.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication that belongs to the class of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. It's used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Cosentyx works by blocking the action of TNF, a protein that promotes inflammation in the body.

Can I Receive the Flu Shot Right After Taking Cosentyx?

According to the manufacturer's guidelines, Cosentyx should not be given in combination with live vaccines, including the flu shot. This is because Cosentyx can weaken the immune system, making it difficult for the body to respond to live vaccines.

But What About the Flu Shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people with compromised immune systems, such as those taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx, get vaccinated against the flu. However, the CDC also advises that people taking immunosuppressive medications should consult with their healthcare provider before getting vaccinated.

What Should I Do?

If you're taking Cosentyx and want to get vaccinated against the flu, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They will assess your individual situation and determine the best course of action. In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend delaying the flu shot until you've completed your Cosentyx treatment or until your immune system has recovered.

What Are the Risks of Not Getting Vaccinated?

Not getting vaccinated against the flu can put you at risk of developing serious complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections. According to the CDC, people with compromised immune systems, such as those taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx, are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications.

What Are the Risks of Getting Vaccinated While Taking Cosentyx?

While the risks of getting vaccinated while taking Cosentyx are low, there is a possibility that the vaccine may not be as effective in people with compromised immune systems. Additionally, people taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx may be more susceptible to vaccine-related side effects, such as fever, headache, and fatigue.

What Can I Do to Stay Healthy During the Flu Season?

In addition to getting vaccinated, there are several steps you can take to stay healthy during the flu season:

* Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
* Avoid close contact with people who are sick
* Avoid sharing utensils, towels, and other personal items
* Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
* Get plenty of rest and exercise regularly

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it's generally recommended to avoid getting vaccinated against the flu while taking Cosentyx, it's not impossible. If you're taking Cosentyx and want to get vaccinated against the flu, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They will assess your individual situation and determine the best course of action.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx should not be given in combination with live vaccines, including the flu shot
* People with compromised immune systems, such as those taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx, are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications
* Consult with your healthcare provider before getting vaccinated against the flu if you're taking Cosentyx
* There are several steps you can take to stay healthy during the flu season, including washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and getting plenty of rest and exercise

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get vaccinated against the flu while taking Cosentyx?
Answer: It's generally recommended to avoid getting vaccinated against the flu while taking Cosentyx, but it's not impossible. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
2. What are the risks of not getting vaccinated against the flu while taking Cosentyx?
Answer: Not getting vaccinated against the flu while taking Cosentyx can put you at risk of developing serious complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections.
3. What are the risks of getting vaccinated while taking Cosentyx?
Answer: While the risks of getting vaccinated while taking Cosentyx are low, there is a possibility that the vaccine may not be as effective in people with compromised immune systems. Additionally, people taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx may be more susceptible to vaccine-related side effects.
4. Can I still get vaccinated against the flu if I've already started taking Cosentyx?
Answer: It's generally recommended to delay getting vaccinated against the flu until you've completed your Cosentyx treatment or until your immune system has recovered. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
5. What are some steps I can take to stay healthy during the flu season while taking Cosentyx?
Answer: In addition to getting vaccinated, there are several steps you can take to stay healthy during the flu season, including washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and getting plenty of rest and exercise.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Cosentyx (secukinumab) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8449844>
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Influenza (Flu). Retrieved from <https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm>
3. National Psoriasis Foundation. (n.d.). Cosentyx (secukinumab). Retrieved from <https://www.psoriasis.org/treatments/cosentyx/>
4. American College of Rheumatology. (n.d.). Cosentyx (secukinumab). Retrieved from <https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A-Patient/Cosentyx>
5. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Influenza (Seasonal). Retrieved from <https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal)>